Hip pain may show up while walking, climbing stairs, lying on your side or getting out of a car. You might feel it at the side of the hip, in the groin or towards the buttock. That makes it tempting to diagnose the problem from a diagram.
The position is useful information, but it is only part of the assessment.
When hip pain needs urgent medical help
Call 000 if you have severe hip pain with fever or cannot put weight on the leg. Seek urgent medical assessment after a fall or injury, for sudden intense pain, or if you cannot move the hip. New pain after a hip replacement that had been recovering well also needs prompt medical advice. Healthdirect describes these warning signs.
There is more than one possible source
Hip pain can involve muscles, tendons, the joint or a fracture. Sometimes pain is referred from another area, such as the back. Assessment may include your history, walking and movement; tests depend on the findings. Treatment can include physiotherapy or medical care, according to the cause.
For ongoing pain or reduced movement, discuss the problem with your doctor or physiotherapist rather than assuming it is simply age or tight muscles.
Describe the situation, not just the pain score
Think about one task you are changing because of the pain. Are you avoiding a walk, taking stairs differently or waking when you turn in bed? Tell the clinician what happens during the task and afterwards.
Bring any previous diagnosis, scan report or surgical advice. Explain your work and home demands so the proposed plan accounts for the things you cannot easily avoid.
Turn advice into a manageable next step
If activity changes or exercises are proposed, ask what to do, how much, and when to review the response. Ask whether an aid or medical review is appropriate rather than buying equipment on the strength of a general article.
Your goal might be walking to the shops or returning to training. State it clearly. It gives you and your clinician a practical way to discuss progress without promising a fixed outcome or timetable.
Book an assessment for your next step
Enhanced Physio offers a free initial physiotherapy assessment at Runcorn or Southport, in person or by telehealth. Later treatment and other services may have different fees. Tell us your main concern when booking so we can help you choose the appropriate appointment.
View physiotherapy and booking options, or call 1300 833 866. If your symptoms need urgent medical care, use that service first.
A guide from Enhanced Physio, 2 November 2026. General information, not a diagnosis or individual treatment plan.